PHL developers boost disaster resilience amid climate hazards

PROPERTY DEVELOPERS in the Philippines are increasingly integrating disaster-resilient and sustainable features in their projects, as recent earthquakes and extreme weather highlight the country’s vulnerability to natural hazards.

- By Beatriz Marie D. Cruz

"Due to the recent natural disasters that have impacted the country, including Cebu and Davao, many, if not all, major developers have likely heightened discussions with their designers and planners on ways to mitigate such risks," said Roy Amado L. Golez, Jr., director for research, consultancy and valuation at Leechiu Property Consultants.

Developments that incorporate modern systems in power, water, waste, pollution and mobility tend to attract more tenants, he said in an emailed reply to questions.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. and its residential arm SM Development Corp. have made disaster preparedness a key part of their design process.

"We're finding that a lot of people are concerned about how to keep their assets and families safe," Jessica Bianca T. Sy, SM Prime head of corporate planning and development, told BusinessWorld on the sidelines of an event last week.